Collaborative Learning in Practice (CLiP) in a London maternity ward-a qualitative pilot study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Healthcare Professional Training
• Maternity Care

Background:

• Increasing student placement capacity is a challenge in healthcare education.
• Collaborative Learning in Practice (CLiP) offers a potential solution to enhance student learning experiences.
• This study piloted CLiP in a busy London hospital maternity setting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the experiences of midwifery students and staff participating in a CLiP pilot study.
• To identify barriers and enablers for implementing CLiP in a maternity ward.
• To assess the impact of CLiP on student learning and confidence.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative explorative study design.
• Descriptive online survey and individual semi-structured interviews.
• Thematic analysis of transcribed survey and interview data.

Main Results:

• Three key themes emerged: preparation for CLiP, peer-learning and collaboration as a resource, and independence and trust as learning drivers.
• Adequate preparation, including CLiP educator support, is crucial for successful implementation.
• CLiP appeared to enhance clinical confidence in students, especially more experienced ones, via peer learning and autonomy.

Conclusions:

• Findings align with previous CLiP studies, contributing insights for demanding clinical environments like London maternity wards.
• The CLiP hour provides valuable protected reflection time.
• Further large-scale research is recommended to validate these findings.